Why I’m Keeping My Summer Travel Plans

In the midst of so much change, one thing I still retain is the ability to dream, to envision future plans. My future plans include a women’s fishing expedition to the Steamboat Bay Fishing Club in the remote area of Ketchikan, Alaska. Located on Noyes Island, our group will take a short float plane ride from Ketchikan to get there.

When I was invited on this trip a couple months ago, I had no idea the changes in store for travel. Since then, all of my trips but this one have been canceled, and I’m holding tightly onto plans to visit this luxury resort, considered to be the most remote fishing lodge in the world, located in the wilds of Alaska. The remote locale and limited number of attendees make this feel like the perfect place to practice social distancing.

No crowds there. The small, private lodge only accommodates up to 16 guests and has a private chef, hot tub, sauna, open bar, game room, and very personalized service, including massage. I’m looking forward to traveling with three other women to enjoy fresh air with plenty of space to roam outdoors. I had already considered it a bucket-list trip, but with the current situation of staying home, holding onto the vision of hiking and boating in a remote location, far from crowds, but with a select group of friends, sounds even more ideal.

The resort is only open during the peak fishing months of June through August; our group is booked for July 2 to 6. We’ll fly into Ketchikan from Seattle, a 90 minute flight, and spend the night at Cape Fox Lodge. The next morning, we’ll take an early floatplane and a boat to arrive at Steamboat Bay.

Steamboat Bay Fishing Club

The only resort located on Noyes Island, Steamboat Bay is just minutes from the best fishing in Southeast Alaska — waters famous for king and silver salmon, halibut, lingcod, and more than 20 species of rockfish. Located on 31 square miles in the Tongass National Forest, the area is uninhabited save for the club’s members, guests, and crew.

We’ll be staying in The Lodge guesthouse. Also on property is The Residence, which can accommodate eight guests. Both lodges are decorated with Alaska Native art, cedar paneling and cabinetry, and fixtures reclaimed from a 1920s-era cannery that once flourished on the site.

After a long period at home, I’m anticipating relaxing in the lodge’s Great Room with its vaulted ceilings and second-story views of the bay. It will be such a change of pace from the current situation to sit in front of the stone fireplace relaxing after a day of fishing. I’m also looking forward to pulling up an Adirondack chair on the club’s wraparound deck overlooking the bay.

Fishing

Our days will be spent on the water. The club hosts anglers of all ages and skill levels, which is encouraging since I’ve only been on one other guided fishing expedition.

The area is known for premium fishing, the result of a combination of spring runoff, the craggy coastline, and a confluence of ocean currents lending to an ideal habitat for millions of baitfish. The baitfish draw the schools of salmon and other species.

Fishing expeditions are limited to four guests to a boat. Our group will fish for three days with a choice for lunch: We can have a chef-prepared meal on the boat, or we can return to the lodge for lunch and rest time, maybe in front of the massive stone fireplace.

All of the gear is provided, including fishing pants, jacket, and boots. We can sit back and enjoy the sights — humpback whales that sometimes breach nearby, sea otters, puffins, sea lions, bald eagles, and more — or get involved with fishing and perhaps landing a big king salmon, halibut, lingcod, or rockfish.

Last year when I visited La Paz, Mexico, we dined on our fresh catch each evening. So when I learned that guests typically take home 25 pounds or more of fish that they caught, I was excited by the thought of having my fresh catch to eat when I return home. The resort cleans and cuts the fillets, then flash freezes them and packs them into custom wet-lock fish boxes for the return flight.

I’m looking forward to the 27-foot cruisers with all the niceties: heated cabins, charging stations for personal electronics, state of the art marine technology, and private heads (privies). Although my fishing trip in La Paz was unforgettable, our boat lacked toilets and had little shade (we spent the day chasing the shade around the boat in the near 100 degree heat) — two comforts that are helpful for long days on the water.

A whale at Steamboat Bay Fishing Club. — Steamboat Bay Fishing Club

Other Activities

When not fishing, I plan to step into nature and enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, visiting the waterfall observation deck, and kayaking in the bay. Indoors, there will be plenty of opportunity for rest and relaxation with a massage, sitting in the hot tub or Slavic banya-style sauna, or just relaxing by the fire.

Meals

A private chef creates menus that change daily and emphasize fresh, regional ingredients. A hot, made-to-order breakfast is served each day. Lunches will include either a picnic aboard our boat or at the club. Each night, we’ll enjoy drinks at the open bar. The cocktail hour includes a chef’s presentation of hors d’oeuvres followed by dinner, which I’m really looking forward to.

Dinners will include menus and Pacific Coast wine pairings utilizing fresh regional fare such as wild game, local seafood, and even organic greens grown in the club’s greenhouse garden. I’m looking forward to tasting such specialties as Smoked Tomato Boar Lasagna, Reindeer Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms, and Wild Game Chili. After dinner, we can relax in the Club Room, a loft overlooking the Great Room, with a nightcap.

I’m looking forward to this opportunity to visit the wilderness area of Alaska. It’s a rare opportunity to visit such a remote area yet have the luxuries of fine dining and a luxury resort in an intimate setting.

While the future coronavirus climate is unknown, my hope is that by summer travel will reawaken. What a fantastic opportunity to visit such a pristine area as my first trip after the travel bans are lifted.

For more on making safe, healthy, and inspired choices during this time, see all our COVID-19-specific content here.

8 Reasons To Visit Malibu Even If You’re Not Famous

Malibu brings to mind celebrities living in beautiful beachfront homes with fancy sports cars parked in the driveway. But it turns out that this small town also offers an array of activities — mostly outdoor ones — that are accessible to everyone. Miles of canyon trails, long stretches of sandy beach, and plenty of dining opportunities make Malibu a great place to spend a day even if you aren’t rich or famous.

Here are eight reasons to consider a visit to Malibu.

One of the many beaches in Malibu. — turtix / Shutterstock

1. You Can Relax On Beautiful Beaches

Malibu offers 27 miles of beachfront to explore, so whether you prefer to sun on the sand or get in the water, you’ll definitely enjoy spending time here.

If you’re hoping to get a glimpse of some of those impressive beach homes, head to Carbon Beach, also known as Billionaire’s Beach. You’ll find parking along the Pacific Coast Highway or near the Malibu Pier.

Fans of The O.C. or Baywatch will want to check out Paradise Cove Beach. Several television shows and movies have been filmed on this small beach. With an on-site restaurant and beach rentals available, this is the place to go if you want to relax in comfort. Reserve a lounge chair, order a cocktail, and appreciate the ocean view. Parking is available for a fee.

Surfers — or anyone who enjoys watching them — should head to Topanga Beach. With over a mile of oceanfront, there’s plenty of space here to relax. In addition to surfing, this is a great spot for scuba diving and windsurfing. Paid parking is available in the nearby lot.

Malibu’s most famous stretch of sand is Zuma Beach, a popular spot for Angelenos to hang out on a sunny day. The shallow water and gently sloping sand make this beach ideal for wading, swimming, and bodysurfing. Free parking can be found on the street, but paid lots are also available.

Surfers in Malibu, California. — Ysbrand Cosijn / Shutterstock

2. You Can Learn To Surf Or Paddleboard

If you’ve always wanted to learn to surf, there is no more beautiful location to do so than Malibu. And fortunately, there are plenty of experienced companies ready to help.

Malibu Surf Coach and Malibu Surf Shack both offer lessons for people of all ability levels and ages. Why not learn how to ride the waves in one of the world’s most famous surf spots?

If you like the idea of being on the water but don’t want to surf, other options include stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Malibu Surf Shack offers rentals and tours for both of these activities.

Views in Malibu Creek State Park. — Lando Aviles / Shutterstock

3. The Canyons Are Perfect For Hiking

Malibu is part of the 156,000-acre Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, a vast space perfect for hiking. In fact, nestled in these hills are some of the most popular hikes in Los Angeles County.

Malibu Creek State Park offers 15 miles of waterside hiking plus the opportunity to see the site where the television show MAS*H was filmed. The park also boasts historic sites from the 19th century, most notably the Sepulveda Adobe. It’s hard to believe that downtown Los Angeles is just 30 minutes away!

For a hike with an ocean view, head to the aptly named Ocean View Trail in Zuma Canyon. This trail has a 750-foot elevation gain, so it’s a good workout, but the views of Zuma Beach make it worth the effort.

If your goal is to see a waterfall, then head to the Escondido Falls Trail. This 3.7-mile round-trip hike will take you past two waterfalls and ultimately to the tallest falls in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Pro Tip: If hiking the trails through Malibu’s canyons isn’t for you, consider exploring them on horseback instead. You can take a ride through Zuma Canyon with Malibu Riders or Connemara Ranch and enjoy the beautiful Santa Monica Mountains along with ocean views. Schedule a ride in the spring, and you may also see the wildflowers in bloom.

The Getty Villa in Malibu, California. — Roka / Shutterstock

4. The Getty Villa Is A Unique (And Free) Art Museum

The Getty Villa alone is worth the trip to Malibu. Built by J. Paul Getty, the structure is a replica of the Villa dei Papiri, which was rediscovered in the 1750s in Italy. Here the focus is on ancient art, from the end of the Stone Age to the fall of the Roman Empire. Even better? This world-class museum is free!

Surrounding the Getty Villa are four gardens: the Outer Peristyle, Inner Peristyle, Herb Garden, and East Garden. Be sure to take time to stroll these lovely gardens, which feature more than 300 varieties of plants and flowers.

Free docent-led tours of the gardens, the Getty Villa, and the special collections are available and will definitely enhance your visit.

The Malibu Pier in California. — Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock

5. The Malibu Pier Is Lots Of Fun

To get the absolute best view of Malibu, you’ll need to walk along the Malibu Pier. Look out over the vast Pacific Ocean, or appreciate the rising Santa Monica Mountains. Built in 1905, this pier has served as a shipping hub and a U.S. Coast Guard Lookout Station, and today it’s a fun destination for locals and visitors alike. There are a few small shops to explore as well as restaurants for when you get hungry.

6. You Can Go On A Wine Safari

Malibu Wine Safaris lets guests taste wine and tour a collection of exotic animals including giraffes, zebras, bison, alpacas, and more. Most of the animals are brought to this 1,000-acre property after retiring from movie careers. The result is one of the most unique wine-tasting venues anywhere in the world.

Choose from eight different tours, including a pizza-and-wine tour, a mimosa brunch, and a falconry tour. Or for something more active, you can book a wine tasting and hike. There are a wide variety of wines to sample, and all are sourced from local vineyards. Tours last from 1 to 2 hours and should be booked in advance.

7. You Can Enjoy Delicious (And Reasonably Priced) Seafood

Malibu offers many opportunities to indulge in fresh seafood while enjoying ocean views. Some of these experiences are pricey, but there are more affordable options as well.

One of the best-known places to eat in town is Malibu Seafood. Parking is limited, and the lines can be long, but it’s all worth it when you bite into a shrimp cocktail, fish and chips, or a scallop sandwich. While waiting for your food, grab a seat at one of the picnic tables and soak in the ocean views.

Neptune’s Net has been an institution along the Pacific Coast Highway for more than 60 years. And even first timers may recognize this place, since it’s been featured in a variety of movies, including The Fast and the Furious. Locals recommend ordering the seafood sampler or fish and chips. This place gets pretty crazy during the lunch hour, so try to arrive early.

Reel Inn isn’t as well known as the two previously mentioned spots, but it’s also a great place for tasty and affordable seafood. What’s especially impressive here is the large selection of fish and seafood, including lobster, mahi-mahi, calamari, sea bass, and more. And with both indoor and outdoor seating, this is a good option no matter the weather.

The Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum. — divanov / Shutterstock

8. It’s Rich In History

Long before Malibu became celebrity central, it was home to the Chumash people and Spanish settlers. You can learn all about the area’s history at the Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum.

The museum houses a collection of rare artifacts and photographs from the town’s history. Built in 1929, the Adamson House is on the National Register of Historic Places and features extensive use of ceramic tiles from Malibu Potteries. Surrounding the house are beautiful gardens that have been maintained in their original 1930s style.

The admission fee includes entrance to the museum, house, and gardens, and guided tours are available Wednesday through Saturday.

Travel Insurance Lessons The Coronavirus Pandemic Taught Me

Even though I travel regularly, I have to admit that I’ve rarely given travel insurance much thought. I have a policy that’s good for a period of one year, and I also have coverage through my credit card. I used to feel pretty confident with that. I’m in good health, and I tended to look at insurance as a backup plan for the worst-case scenario. But that was before COVID-19.

While planning a trip to Paris, I casually asked a friend in the insurance industry if there was anything extra I should look into. For instance, was there a policy that would cover the cost of a hotel should I be forced to quarantine? She just laughed. No, no one would sell a policy that covered a forced stay in a luxury hotel. It was then that I realized that I needed a bit of a refresher on travel insurance and travel medical insurance.

While my Parisian vacation is now on hold, I’m glad to have learned these travel insurance lessons before hitting the road again.

Credit Card Insurance Is Great — But Only If You Use Your Credit Card

Laugh at me if you want, but I had no idea that credit card-based travel insurance was only valid if you used said credit card to book your trip. In other words, if you don’t use your credit card to pay for your trip, you usually can’t use it to get compensation if something bad happens. Or if you book your car rental using one credit card, you don’t get to use the benefits of car rental insurance that come with your other credit card.

Before, I just assumed that, since I paid a fee for my credit card, I had de facto paid for an insurance policy as well. But that’s not how it works. If you use a variety of credit cards to take advantage of points offers, or if someone else is paying for your trip, consider buying a stand-alone travel policy. You don’t want to travel with false confidence.

Credit Card Insurance Is Great — But Only If You Remember To Use It

Most people think of travel insurance as a backup for when things go really, really off the rails. And, in some ways, it is. Therefore, when little bumps come up along the way, we usually write them off as a bad travel day and never consider that travel insurance could help us.

But a lot of travelers forget about the built-in trip-interruption or trip-delay insurance that comes with most credit cards. This insurance goes into effect when your trip is delayed — and for some policies, a delay is defined as just a few hours. The insurance will reimburse you for some of the expenses associated with the delay, including toiletries and meals. Other cards include lost-luggage insurance, which can provide valuable coverage if your bags are delayed (and can help make up for your airline’s paltry offerings).

In a difficult and disorganized situation — whether it’s due to a pandemic or simply a huge winter storm during the holidays — it’s comforting to know that you have a bit of backup when you’re forced to spend $20 for contact lens solution at an airport gift shop.

An easy way to keep track of what is and isn’t covered by your particular card is to take a photo of your policy and keep it on your phone. If you’re entitled to some reimbursements, take them.

Cancel For Any Reason Insurance Isn’t So Comprehensive

Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance is often presented as a surefire, completely comprehensive form of insurance that protects you from every single eventuality. With CFAR insurance, you can cancel your trip — for any reason — up to as little as 48 hours before departure.

However, it’s important to note that many policies only cover between 50 percent and 75 percent of the trip costs. This might well be worth it if you’re investing in very expensive airfare and heading to a destination where there are concerns about civil unrest. It might not be worth it if you’re planning a trip to the coast for a week of rest and relaxation during flu season. These policies are very expensive, and you’ll have to consider whether you’d rather have increased peace of mind or be able to save more money for future trips and expenses.

Some airlines offer passengers the choice between “firm,” “flexible,” and “freedom” plans, sometimes called bronze, silver, and gold plans. As you might imagine, a firm booking means you’ll get zero reimbursement should you cancel or reschedule your flight. Those with a flexible booking have a bit of leeway and can usually reschedule for a modest fee. And those who paid for a freedom booking can switch things up without penalty.

Some airlines offer branded credit cards that give passengers the benefits of a flexible- or freedom-level flight when passengers use the credit card to make a firm booking. I’m going to look into this option myself going forward.

Policies Are Easily Misunderstood — And Can Change With The Times

In early February, before COVID-19 was a widespread global concern, MedjetAssist and MedjetHorizon suspended their evacuation services in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macau. Many long-term travelers responded to this announcement with confusion and disbelief. What was the point of purchasing emergency evacuation coverage with fine print and restrictions?

But the reality of the situation is that insurance rarely covers known events. And a medical evacuation team simply can’t fly you home when all flights are in lockdown. That doesn’t mean that a policy like this isn’t valuable in other circumstances, but it does mean that travelers should ask their agents how any products they purchase would serve them (or not) in an event like COVID-19.

I would never have believed I’d have anything to appreciate about COVID-19, but it has certainly made me a more informed consumer. I’ve learned to critically examine all of the services I use.

Policy Price Limits Aren’t What You Think

The payment limit for hospitalization is the part of an insurance policy that every traveler skims over with glazed eyes. But if you’re paying attention, you might notice that your policy includes a $100,000 or $200,000 cap on hospitalization payments.

Those figures don’t exactly mean too much unless you happen to work in hospital accounting. However, what every traveler needs to know is that hospital costs can skyrocket in a matter of days. It’s not just people who need emergency open-heart surgery who face huge costs. Being hospitalized in a foreign country might very well be the most expensive thing you’ve ever faced.

If your insurance policy has the option of upgrading to a similar package with a higher limit on hospitalization payments, take it. You’ll pay just a little more to get more significant protection and peace of mind.

Preexisting Conditions May Be Covered

I’ve heard from so many people during the COVID-19 health crisis that they didn’t have travel insurance — simply because they assumed they wouldn’t get coverage because of a preexisting medical condition. Thankfully, they’re all safe and healthy, but it is worrying to imagine how many people could get into serious health or financial difficulties because of this.

Many insurance companies now cover preexisting conditions, either fully or with some conditions and restrictions. Working with an insurance agent, as opposed to a single company, is an extremely cost-effective way to find a comprehensive policy.

You’ll Want To Plan For Comfort

If there’s one lesson that has come up, again and again, during the COVID-19 public health crisis, it’s that family matters. While it isn’t always safe to have family right by your side when you’re sick, knowing that a family member is nearby to offer practical assistance and advocate for you can be hugely comforting. However, the act of bringing them to your side can be outrageously expensive.

Many insurance policies include a clause that will cover the cost of bringing a loved one to your side should you fall seriously ill overseas. But this is often only included with silver or gold packages, and it’s rarely included in basic policies. It’s one thing I’ll definitely be looking for in my next purchase.

Many Healthcare Expenses Aren’t Covered

Hearing from friends who are stranded in different countries around the world has shown me just how much money you can spend on healthcare before your insurance kicks in. Virtually all products that will make you feel better — from ice packs to pain medication to cough syrup — will be out-of-pocket costs. So will all low-cost medical appointments. Even a clinic visit that costs several hundred dollars won’t meet the average deductible.

That’s why it’s a good idea to stash a little extra money, like 10 percent of the total cost of your trip, into an emergency fund. Whether you need to take multiple pricey taxis to and from a clinic or are forced to buy a lot of comfort items, you’ll have some cash to cushion the flow.

Like many people living through this severe public health crisis, I’m experiencing fear and anxiety. I’m worried both for the short term — about the health and wellbeing of my neighbors — as well as the long term, when I consider how many businesses will face serious challenges to rebuild.

But I’m curiously feeling calm when I consider future travel. Improving my insurance knowledge has motivated me to read the fine print before each and every trip. Let’s hope it’s not too long before we’re all starting to plan our next adventure!

Missouri Road Trip: Saint Louis To Kansas City

The Show-Me State of Missouri is the perfect place for a leisurely road trip. It’s got stunning natural beauty, large cosmopolitan areas, quaint small towns, and loads of history.

Here is a perfect road-trip itinerary that will take you between the state’s two largest cities: Saint Louis and Kansas City.

Saint Louis

Saint Louis has deep roots in history. Consider a downtown walking tour including stops at the Old Courthouse and the Old Cathedral. You can also take advantage of the city’s beautiful outdoor spaces, including the Gateway Arch National Park and Citygarden, as well as Forest Park just a few miles outside of the city center.

For something to eat before you set out, grab takeout from any one of the fantastic international restaurants along South Grand Boulevard, several miles southwest of downtown. Enjoy a picnic at nearby Tower Grove Park, the oldest Victorian walking park west of the Mississippi.

See this piece for more of our favorite things to do in the Gateway to the West.

We recommend taking Highway 40 out of Saint Louis and from there, hopping onto Highway 94 for the majority of your trip. The well-maintained road closely follows the Missouri River, and you’ll appreciate the scenic ride through the bluffs at any time of year.

This is also the route to follow to experience some of Missouri’s best-known wineries. German settlers came to this region because it reminded them of the Rhine Valley, and they certainly left a lasting legacy.

Pro Tip: Consider stocking your cooler with a few Saint Louis specialties: Fitz’s Root Beer, G&W sausage sticks, and gooey butter cakes can be found in most area grocery stores.

Augusta, Missouri

You can see and feel that German influence in the tiny town of Augusta, Missouri, the perfect first stop out of Saint Louis. Whether you spend an hour or a night there, you’ll love the charm of the original homes, the small shops, the surrounding farms, and — of course — the wineries!

There are several wineries in and around Augusta, so be sure to pace yourself and imbibe responsibly if you plan to hit the road afterward. If you plan to stay, there are a number of cute bed and breakfasts in town. For the privacy of an entire home, check out the August Haus, a historic spot beautifully renovated with exposed brick, a vaulted ceiling, and a full kitchen.

Pro Tip: Centennial Farms, a gorgeous family-owned orchard in Augusta, has incredible jam for sale made with fruit grown on-site.

Washington, Missouri

Just a short drive from Augusta — 10 minutes due south of Highway 94 and across a newly constructed bridge — is the riverfront town of Washington, Missouri. Located on the Missouri, this town also traces its roots to German settlers. Its downtown district is worth a quick stop, with its historic red brick buildings filled with boutiques, antique shops, and galleries. Special events are routinely held alongside the riverfront, including a terrific farmers market.

Pro Tip: Don’t walk — run — to Cowan’s Restaurant for a cup of coffee and a slice of mile-high meringue pie after you explore Washington’s downtown.

Hermann, Missouri

Get back on Highway 94, head west for another 30 miles, and take a quick detour to the south. Once again, you’ll cross a newly constructed bridge over the Missouri and find yourself in the hamlet of Hermann.

This is the true heart of German wine country, and you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to Bavaria when you see the gorgeous red brick homes built into the town’s river bluffs. There are more than a dozen wineries in and around the town. Consider staying the night in one of the amenity-loaded bed and breakfasts or inns. Our favorite is Hermann Hill, a luxe resort complete with a full-service spa.

Pro Tip: A $20 ticket will buy you a full-day seat on a trolley that travels from downtown Hermann to many of the wineries. It’s a bargain!

The Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City. — Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

Jefferson City, Missouri

Once you’re back on the road, take Highway 94 to its terminus, just north of Missouri’s capital, Jefferson City. Take Highway 54 to the heart of the city, where you can tour the Missouri Governor’s Mansion. Then pop into the State Capitol to check out the Missouri State Museum, with its interesting collection of state artifacts. To see the place where many of Missouri’s most infamous criminals were housed, book a tour of the now inactive Missouri State Penitentiary. If you’re staying the night, the DoubleTree by Hilton offers modern rooms just steps away from the sights.

Pro Tip: For the best ice cream in the state, visit Jefferson City’s Central Dairy.

Fulton, Missouri

Take Highway 54 20 miles north from Jefferson City, take the exit for Fulton, and you’ll find a bit of Britain in mid-Missouri. The National Churchill Museum is located on the campus of Westminster College. The renowned British prime minister traveled to Fulton in 1946 and delivered his famous “Iron Curtain” speech, effectively marking the start of the Cold War. To celebrate the 20th anniversary of his visit, Westminster arranged to have a 1677 Christopher Wren-designed church moved from London stone by stone and rebuilt. The Churchill Museum is located beneath this gorgeous building.

Pro Tip: If you’re feeling peckish, stop for a bite at the Fulton Cafe downtown for a terrific meal.

Columbia, Missouri

Columbia, Missouri, is home to the state’s flagship university and offers visitors a vibrant arts, culture, and shopping scene. Hit 9th Street to peruse funky resale shops, boutiques, cafes, and galleries. Walk the length of 9th until you hit the entrance to campus. Pass through the University of Missouri’s famous journalism school buildings, walk the Francis Quadrangle, and don’t forget your selfie at the Columns, all that remains of the school’s Academic Hall, which burned in 1892.

Stop at Shakespeare’s Pizza for lunch; their pies are a beloved Mizzou tradition. Consider taking in a live concert at the Blue Note. And if you’re staying overnight, the historic Tiger Hotel offers comfortable accommodations in the middle of downtown.

Pro Tip: Stop at the bust of Missouri Governor David Francis, located north of Jesse Hall, and give his nose a good rub for luck. Over the years, it’s been buffed to a shine by students hoping for an A on their next exam.

Rocheport, Missouri

About a half-hour west of Columbia, just off of Interstate 70, sits the charming village of Rocheport, Missouri. Founded in 1825, Rocheport is a place where you can slow down and unwind, if only just for a couple of hours during your Missouri adventure. The town contains many historic homes and storefronts occupied by galleries, antique stores, and cafes. Whether you spend an hour or an entire day there, you’ll be charmed by this tiny town, located right on the Katy Trail and the Missouri River.

Pro Tip: If you’re not sick of wine at this point (we’re not sure how that would be possible, but just in case), Les Bourgeois Vineyards has a deck with stunning views of the Missouri River.

Arrow Rock, Missouri

About 17 miles west of Rocheport, a brief detour onto State Highway 135 will take you to one of Missouri’s tiniest cultural gems: Arrow Rock. The entire village has been designated a National Historic Landmark. The Santa Fe Trail once cut through the town, and the famous painter George Caleb Bingham called Arrow Rock home in the 1840s. Call ahead to make sure the shops and restaurants are open.

Pro Tip: Arrow Rock’s Lyceum Theatre is Missouri’s oldest regional professional theater and offers excellent performances. Make plans to take in a show there if your schedule permits.

Kansas City

You’re in the home stretch! About 90 minutes farther west on Interstate 70 sits Missouri’s second-largest metro area, Kansas City. From jazz on Vine Street to the fabulous Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the terrific shopping at the Country Club Plaza, there’s no shortage of things to see and do here, and many of the city’s attractions are free.

Of course, no visit would be complete without Kansas City barbecue; while Jack Stack is a winner, we also love Joe’s Kansas City, located in a former gas station.

Pro Tip: As you conclude your road trip, you might be ready for a little extra luxe. A stay at The Raphael is just the way to end your epic trip from Saint Louis!

How To Recreate Your Favorite Trips At Home

Until recently, we’ve been used to traveling where we want and when we want anywhere in the world. With the coronavirus outbreak across the globe, this is no longer the case. While we hope that circumstances change sooner than later, we’re going to be staying at home for the foreseeable future.

Wanderlust Interrupted

Last year, we took 14 trips. They lasted anywhere from a couple of days to two weeks in length and were both international and throughout the United States. Not being able to travel has been a dramatic change in our lives. Of course, there are the obvious physical restrictions on our ability to travel. But we also miss the sense of discovery and freedom that travel provides. Wandering through the back streets of Paris or checking out new restaurants with friends in New York are the kinds of experiences that make us thrive.

Being at home 24/7 gives us a lot of time to think. Inevitably, our minds return to favorite trips we have taken as we reminisce about our passion for travel. But rather than making us sad that we can’t go out and explore the world, we decided to recreate our favorite trips to help us revisit the places, flavors, and cultures that we love. The more we reconnect with the destinations we have enjoyed, the more we realize that we can live a global life no matter where we are.

Treasured Travel Memories

Some of our most treasured memories have filled us with deeper appreciation for the places we’ve been. Our visit to Greece took us from the northern reaches of the Pelion region through the neighborhoods of Athens and down to the southern Peloponnese. We’ve traveled to many parts of France, including Ile-de-France, where Paris is situated, and through Normandy, Brittany, the Loire Valley, Burgundy, Midi-Pyrenees, Occitanie, Provence, and many more. We’ve enjoyed great cities in Spain, including Barcelona, Toledo, and Madrid. Our travels have taken us through Germany, Austria, Mexico, Hungary, China, Portugal, Canada, Ireland, Singapore, India, Brazil, and so many more diverse and fascinating countries.

We have experienced beautiful islands including Nevis, St. Croix, Hawaii, Capri, Hydra, and Madeira. We’ve floated on barges and river boats in spectacular style on waterways from the canals of Burgundy to the romantic Danube River, too. And we’ve had some adventures, like sleeping in a cave hotel and taking a sunrise air balloon in Cappadocia, Turkey. Our visits to Canada showed us a cultural bridge between North America and the rest of the world.

The United States has provided many travel pleasures as well. We’ve explored coast to coast, from New York to Los Angeles, and north to south from Montana to Texas. We’ve taken road trips through New England, the Midwest, Southwest, and just about every other region. And we’re just beginning to explore the delights in our very own home state: Wisconsin. It’s safe to say that not only has travel been a big part of our lives, it’s also a part of who we are.

What We Can Do To Keep “Traveling” Now

Because we have so many vivid memories, along with plenty of photos and souvenirs, we hit upon the idea of recreating some of our own favorite trips without leaving home. Using items we have around us and resources we can access through the online world, we’re able to recreate some of our favorite trips through common elements that transport us in spirit. We’ve had a lot of fun making new memories from old trips. We also plan to spend time coming up with new ideas for travels we plan to take in the future. Rather than seeing ourselves trapped at home, we’re actually taking amazing trips to places we love. All it takes is a little creativity and some planning. Let us tell you what we do and how you can recreate some of your own favorite trips at home, too.

Elements For Recreating Favorite Trips At Home

There are a few components to consider when planning to recreate your favorite trips. These are the elements that stimulate our imaginations and transport us back to our favorite destinations. You may find some others that you’ll also want to include. Do whatever feels right to you.

Decor

The first thing we notice about any destination is what images give us our first impression. Whether we’re in the United States or traveling abroad, every place has its own special charm. We have some souvenirs that remind us of those places as well as plenty of photos to help. Postcards, refrigerator magnets, clothing, household items, and other reminders of your trip will help create the mood.

Music

Ambiance is a big trigger for memory. When we think about how to conjure up our favorite trips, our ears are just as important as our eyes. We purchased CDs in some places like Cuba. When it comes to others, including Ireland, Brazil, and Greece, there is plenty of traditional music to stream. Flamenco reminds us of Spain while fado takes us back to Portugal. Some music is great for relaxing and savoring. Other music makes us want to get up and dance. We can choose whatever suits our mood or mix it up and create the perfect blend for us.

An authentic Turkish tea set from Istanbul. — Sue Reddel and Diana Laskaris

Beverages

So many of our favorite trips have come with a beverage specialty. Hurricanes in New Orleans. Rum Punch in Nevis. Creative fruit juice blends in Dubai. Tea in China. Beer in Germany. Wine in France. Porto in Portugal. Spain is about Sangria and Guinness Stout is Ireland in a glass. Tsipouro reminds us of our lovely evenings in northern Greece. And huckleberry lemonade takes us right to Montana. We have to admit that nothing tastes better than ice cold orange juice made with California or Florida oranges, with or without champagne. We bought a Turkish tea set through haggling at the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. You can bet when we recreate a visit to Turkey, it will be part of our table along with our memories.

Food

Since food is one of the main focuses of our travel, we love to recreate the cuisine of our trip. That doesn’t mean we have to become Michelin-starred chefs to make things feel authentic. We can find an easy recipe from the many on the internet or choose to make a specific dish or even just the essence of a dish, depending on what we have on hand. Pita bread, olives, and feta cheese take us back to Greece. Spaghetti with some marinara makes a nice Italian meal. Rice and beans can take us anywhere from Louisiana to Cuba, Mexico to Brazil.

Entertainment

If you like to play games, charades makes a wonderful way to test out your memories of people, events, or places you’ve seen. If you like watching cooking shows, there are plenty that take you to the culture or the cuisine. Rick Bayless in Mexico, The Great British Baking Show, Yan Can Cook, and others offer cultural culinary fun. You can also watch movies on streaming services or revisit your favorite DVDs to find films that include some of your favorite locations. We could watch (and have) The Sound Of Music a hundred times and never get tired of those Austrian Alps. You can see our article about best travel movies along with perfect cocktail pairings for more ideas that you can enjoy.

German bratwurst and beer for dinner. — Sue Reddel and Diana Laskaris

A Few Recreations Of Our Favorite Trips

France

We’ve been to so many places in France, we have a lot from which to choose. Using a tablecloth and napkins we bought in Provence, we set a table that already makes us feel like we’re there. While we can play any number of French songs, Edith Piaf singing “La Vie En Rose” is really all we need to set the mood. Any French accordion music makes a great background as well.

To bring back specific memories, we look at some of our favorite trip photos. A little spray of lavender in the air and a couple of dried lavender bundles engage all our senses. French onion soup, a lovely omelet, or a simple quiche transport us to one of our favorite countries on earth. We have sparkling conversation as we would on any voyage. A bit of cheese finishes things off well. We watch Sabrina or Midnight In Paris or Julia Child and Jacques Pepin cooking shows to make our revisit to France complete.

Germany

Our travels to Germany have included two favorite celebrations — Oktoberfest in Munich and Christmas markets all over the country. We never get tired of eating and drinking German delights. We have some blue and white checked paper napkins for our own Oktoberfest recreations at home. There’s beer in the fridge and, being in Wisconsin, brats in the freezer. We can easily make an Oktoberfest meal with beer and brats and oompah music. If we were going for Christmastime Germany, we’d pull out some of the many Gluhwein mugs we collected from our Christmas market visits and heat some red wine with cloves, allspice, oranges, and honey. To work off a few calories, we’ll do some silly Oktoberfest dances to popular fest songs, including “Fliegerlied.” You can even get a dance lesson in English to follow along. We don’t happen to have lederhosen or dirndles, but if you do, put them on!

Cuba

Our visit to Cuba was one of our most amazing trips ever. We went as part of a People To People mission and so were accompanied by locals every step of the way. We learned to make the traditional rice and beans dish called Moros y Cristianos, which you can easily make with pantry ingredients and our simple recipe. A Cuban sandwich is tasty, too. In Cuba we were surrounded by music everywhere. One of our favorite groups is the Buena Vista Social Club, consisting of some old time superstars who got together to create a beautiful soundtrack one more time. If you like the music, there’s a movie about the group available on Amazon, Google Play, YouTube, and other services. Of course, you might want to enjoy a mojito or El Presidente cocktail while you’re at it.

A Greek salad in Delphi. — Sue Reddel and Diana Laskaris

Greece

One of the easiest trips for us to recreate is our wonderful exploration of Greece. We traveled the country from top to bottom, uncovering places that many tourists never go. Whether exploring the dreamy islands or diving deep into the history of Athens, it’s no doubt that Greece holds many memories for us and for other travelers who have had the chance to visit. We happen to have brought some Tsipouro alcohol back with us, so we can start there for our celebration of all things Greek. Greece is also known for anise-flavored Ouzo, Metaxa brandy, plenty of wine, and even some beer. So basically, we can drink whatever we have around and start shouting Opah! to get in the mood. Blue and white, the colors of the flag, are also thoroughly Greek. Putting on blue and white clothing and dressing the table with blue and white definitely does the trick. Greek bouzouki music is plentiful and provides the perfect ambiance.

We already make plenty of Mediterranean food, so it’s easy for us to create a meal and imagine we’re sitting in a little cafe somewhere in a small Greek village. Even just creating some mezze, or appetizers of feta, olives, veggies, and bread can do the trick. Greek yogurt with honey and pistachios is a tasty and authentic dessert. To make us smile even more, if that’s possible, watching the Mamma Mia films, Shirley Valentine, or My Big Fat Greek Wedding will propel us that much further into Grecian joy.

Montana

It was love at first visit when we went to Montana. We started with a visit to Bozeman, where we first learned what a huckleberry was. What a revelation! Then we went to Missoula, where the beauty of the mountains surrounds you at every turn. We rode across a river on horseback, ate a cowboy dinner on a ranch, strolled through farmers markets, and watched the beauty of natural waterfalls while eating sandwiches at a picnic table. In winter, we went snowshoeing in Yellowstone National Park, a memory we cherish.

Natural beauty is the thing we love most about Montana. To recreate that feeling at home, we surround ourselves with images of the great outdoors. We make a picnic lunch like we had in the park. Since we still have a little huckleberry jam left from our last visit, we put it into some regular lemonade and recreate one of our favorite drinks. We can add a bit of vodka if we’re at the end of the day. Jeans and t-shirts are the order of the day. A jaunty bandana is fun to wear, too. We watch any nature movie we love, but to capture the essence of our Montana experience, there’s no better film than A River Runs Through It, which shows the beauty of Missoula in all its glory.

A Huckleberry Cocktail at Lone Mountain Ranch. — Sue Reddel and Diana Laskaris

Tips For Recreating Your Own Favorite Trips

The experience of recreating our favorite trips at home reminds us that we always have great memories to enjoy and experiences to treasure. Even when we’re not leaving home, we can enjoy the experience of other places. It’s helping us stay in touch with our love of travel and giving us ideas about where we want to go when we emerge from this situation. Now that we’ve given you some ideas and examples, you can do the same thing, too.

Where have you visited that you’d like to go again? You can also recreate a cruise or a train trip. A glass of wine and a little cheese recalls our barge cruise. During the cruise, we enjoyed that pairing every day on our floating hotel. Remember what you enjoyed most about your trip and use those memories to inform what you do. Was there a particular restaurant that you enjoyed? An attraction or event that spoke to you? There are recordings of Cirque du Soleil that take us back to Charlevoix, Quebec — and we can watch them without having to stand in the rain like we did when we were there. Not only can we recreate an experience, sometimes we can even improve it!

Along with the tips above, the most important thing is to remember to have fun. Don’t stress if you don’t have exactly the right food. After all, we fell in love with an Italian restaurant in Madrid, a gyro shack in Paris, and a fancy French place in Frankfurt. Bring out the photos, the postcards, the music. Turn on a video or play a game. Before you’ll know it, you’ll be enjoying the flow of a happy experience wherever you are. And maybe you can begin planning a trip that you’d like to take in the future.

Travel Memories Are For All Time

We’ve learned from this experience that memories of our favorite trips will stay with us forever. The food we ate, the music we heard, the scenery and cultural attractions we experienced will remain with us for a lifetime. Being tied to one place can be challenging for travelers. But with a little planning, some evocative items, and a bit of imagination, you can continue to experience the joys of traveling the world right in the comfort of your own home.

Longing for a window on the world? Check out these 38 virtual tours and webcams you can enjoy from home any time, plus the perfect cocktail pairing for your favorite travel movie.

What It’s Like Living In Paris During The Coronavirus Pandemic

It’s been my dream to live in Paris, and after jumping through numerous administrative hoops, I received a one-year European Union tourist visa which commenced on February 9, 2020. COVID-19 had already taken hold in China, but never did I imagine that the world would change so drastically in the blink of an eye.

Upon starting my new Parisian life, I decided to take my time and slowly sink into the delights of daily life in the City of Light. I started each morning with a stroll across the Canal Saint-Martin to a top boulangerie for flaky croissants which I savored on the Quai.

I ambled through my favorite neighbourhood, Montmartre, revelling in her charms and noticing the distinct lack of tourists.

At 11:30 one evening, I attended the Leonardo Da Vinci exhibition at the Louvre which, for the first time in its history, was open 24 hours a day for three consecutive days. The crowd was shoulder to shoulder taking in the Renaissance master’s works.

I attended the opening day of the new exposition at Atelier des Lumieres. The enclosed space in a former cast iron foundry was filled with spectators in awe of the immersive sound and light show that transported us to sunny Mediterranean shores. It was the end of February, and the only person in the crowded venue wearing a mask was my sister-in-law from London.

I connected with old friends and pushed myself into social situations to make new acquaintances. This new chapter in my life was off to an exquisite start.

It was pure liberty. The freedom to flaner. To uncover Paris at my own pace. To observe her people and their ways.

My ultimate dream.

Empty streets and graffiti in Paris. — Alison Browne

It’s true. Paris was quiet. The deadly and insidious COVID-19 was spreading rapidly. Tourism was down, the recent transit strikes were partly to blame, and shops and squares were fairly empty. A friend remarked, “We have Paris to ourselves.”

I continued to saunter. I wandered into Paris circa 1942 on a movie set in Montmartre. I went to see French movies in a theater that has been showing films since 1914.

And then everything changed.

The numbers of people allowed at gatherings were reduced. Spectacles such as the ballet, which I’d been invited to, were canceled.

Schools closed. Restaurants and cafes were ordered to shut down. Imagine Paris without its trademark wicker chairs lining the sidewalks.

It took time to adjust to the new reality. Parisians still went to the markets and forgot about social distancing chatting with market vendors and neighbors.

But life in Paris was changing rapidly. Masks became a common sight. People wore gloves out in the spring air. And social distancing became a reality.

Everyone was being called home amidst flight delays and cancellations. Travel insurance companies announced that pandemics were not covered.

Hotel du Nord in Paris, closed due to Coronavirus. — Alison Browne

As a Canadian living in Paris, I was well aware that borders were being closed, and Prime Minister Trudeau’s clear messaging told Canadians abroad to return home. I came face to face with a major decision. A quandary. I had just arrived in Paris to live out my dream. Should I stay or return to Canada?

I have aging parents and adult children In Canada. But I have no home base since I began pursuing a nomadic life four and a half years ago. Where would I self-isolate? Which province would I choose to land in? Closer to my parents or my daughters, who live at opposite ends of the country?

One requirement of applying for a long-stay visa to live in France is purchasing travel insurance for the entire period, so in my case, a year. I called my insurance company to find out if I was still covered under the COVID-19 pandemic. I was completely unsure about what response I would receive.

Finding I was covered as I had arrived before the pandemic hit France was a huge relief. The choice was now fully mine. Stay in Paris and ride out the COVID-19 pandemic or return to Canada.

After much deliberation, I chose to stay.

Borders started to close and the order many predicted from President Macron became a reality. Citizens were sent into isolation. All of France went into an unprecedented lockdown.

I stocked up on groceries, thinking of what I might need for two weeks of food in isolation. I entered the supermarket freely. The very next day, there was a line of 60 people, a meter between each as they waited to purchase supplies, snaking down the sidewalk.

Now it’s mandatory to carry an official “Attestation de Deplacement Derogatoire” (or travel certificate) along with an identity card or a passport every time we leave our homes. There are few excuses to leave. One is to get necessary food items. Another reason is for individual physical activity. The police are out in full force asking for the required document.

What a difference a few days make. Not long ago, people thronged in the sunshine by the Seine. Now, Parisians are partaking in individual physical activities. Not a word is heard. Just birdsong.

And such is the new reality.

Place des Vosges in Paris without any tourists. — Alison Browne

Witnessing the police check people’s signed documents for the authority to be on the street is something I have never seen in all my years of travel abroad or life in Canada. The fine for being outside without the signed document or being out for any reason other than the one designated has already been increased by 400 percent.

In the midst of the Paris lockdown, the irony of the situation is quite evident. I moved to Paris for a taste of liberty and am currently enclosed in a 200-square-foot apartment. I tell myself, I can survive two weeks in isolation, knowing full well it will be much longer.

I am taking the “one day at a time” approach and am embracing my curiosity and planning to read, how to learn a language at home during your downtime, and write.

Gratitude is my fallback. It always works for me. I am grateful for my health and that of my loved ones. I am grateful for the internet and my ability to connect with loved ones and friends, far and near.

I am thankful for the reminders of normal life. The church bells chiming hourly bring me great joy. The chestnut tree in the courtyard will, oblivious to the woes of the world, step into her verdant spring robe under my watchful gaze.

I pray my decision to stay in Paris was the right one for me. When we are on the other side of the pandemic, the taste of freedom will be sweeter than ever.

Looking for inspiration for your self-isolation? Read up on how to learn a language at home during your downtime, and see all our COVID-19-related content here.